Mary Kom: I've had three surgeries..

By HT

Mumbai, Aug. 17 -- At 31, Mary Kom is one of India's best-known boxers. Even as a film based on her life gets set to release we caught up with the Olympic bronze medallist to learn more about what's keeping her busy..

Did you think you'd one day be such an inspiration for women?

It was my dream to motivate others, and I'm sure that when they see the film, even more people will be motivated. If someone like me - who has no backing - can reach where I have, then anyone can. I never expected to win these many medals, but I always had belief.

What has kept you busy since the Olympic win in 2012?

I'm trying to get my training routine back in order. After a two-year break (she became a mother for the third time), it's difficult to make a comeback. I've had three surgeries for my pregnancy and a gall bladder problem. Try-outs for the Asian Games will happen soon. They got postponed, and I wasn't even informed, despite being the face of women's boxing in the country. At times, you question whether they consider you Indian.

The makers of your biopic faced some flak after the first look of the film was unveiled, because Priyanka Chopra doesn't look like you. Did you feel that way too?

No, but in some parts, she has tried to emulate my posture, hairstyle and clothes. It's not looking bad. In fact, my younger son watches the songs on the phone and thinks it's me.

Did you recommend any actors for the film?

My only recommendation was the actor should be fit, and have a body like me. Priyanka was perfect. I have seen the film once, and I never thought it would look so beautiful. I cried a lot, remembering all the sacrifices and suffering.

Are you going to travel with the film?

I will travel for the premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. I don't know about other places. I'll have to check my schedule and take time out from training.

NO PROFIT SHARING FOR MARY KOM

When Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra made Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013), it was announced that he got the rights from Milka Singh for only '1. However, recent reports claim that the former sprinter was also supposed to get a percentage of the profits, which he hasn't received as yet. Ask Mary Kom if she has a similar deal and Neerav Tomar, MD of the company that manages the boxer, answers our questions. "No, there is no profit sharing for her in the film. Just a small token amount was exchanged as a gesture because they wanted to make a film on Mary Kom," he says.